Chapter 16 — How Much Do You Make

My mother shook her head rapidly, in total denial.

“No — no!

Noelle works a basic office job!” “I do work in an office, Colleen,” I said calmly.

“You told me you were an employee!” “I never lied to you.

You asked if I worked at a desk, and I said yes.” “You said you managed documents!” “I manage a great many legal and financial documents.” Beside me, Rafael let out a soft, dark chuckle.

My father stared at me as though I were a complete stranger — and perhaps, to him, I always had been.